Veterinarian Salary in Washington
Based on 2K+ workers in Washington
Median Annual Salary (WA)
$160,510
$77.17/hr
vs National Average
$124,944
+28.5% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$97K – $266K
2K employed in Washington
The Veterinarian salary in Washington reflects a highly rewarding career, with a median annual income of $160,510. This figure significantly surpasses the national average, standing 28% higher and indicating strong earning potential for veterinary professionals in the Evergreen State. Currently, approximately 2,390 veterinarians are employed across Washington.
Factors influencing the Veterinarian salary in Washington include years of experience, specialization within veterinary medicine, and the specific type of practice. From small animal clinics to large animal hospitals or specialized referral centers, compensation can vary. Additionally, geographic location within Washington, such as urban versus rural settings, can also impact salary levels and demand for veterinary services.
Salary Distribution — Veterinarian in Washington
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $97,140 |
| 25th percentile | $124,990 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $160,510 |
| 75th percentile | $197,370 |
| 90th percentile | $265,600 |
Top-Paying Industries for Veterinarian (U.S.)
Which industries pay Veterinarians the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Veterinarians in Washington tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing | $185,480 | 140 |
| Wholesale Trade | $160,570 | 490 |
| Retail Trade | $150,920 | 640 |
| Administrative and Support Services | $146,960 | — |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $145,940 | 70 |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Veterinarian in Washington vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Washington) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $124,670 |
| 2023 | $130,890 |
| 2024 | $155,060 |
| 2025 | $160,510 |
| 2026 (projected) | $166,152 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Washington Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $124,670 | $103,756 |
| 2023 | $130,890 | $112,674 |
| 2024 | $155,060 | $118,465 |
| 2025 | $160,510 | $124,944 |
| 2026 (projected) | $166,152 | $129,335 |
Veterinarian Salary by Experience Level in Washington
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $124,990 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $160,510 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $197,370 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $265,600 |
Veterinarian Salary in Other States
Related Veterinarian Salaries in Washington
How other high-demand occupations in Washington compare to Veterinarian ($160,510 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Veterinarian | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiologist in WA | $656,330 | +308.9% | $315.54/hr |
| Anesthesiologist in WA | $499,990 | +211.5% | $240.38/hr |
| Surgeon in WA | $479,460 | +198.7% | $230.51/hr |
| Emergency Medicine Physician in WA | $380,870 | +137.3% | $183.11/hr |
| Obstetrician and Gynecologist in WA | $343,140 | +113.8% | $164.97/hr |
| Internal Medicine Physician in WA | $340,010 | +111.8% | $163.47/hr |
| Psychiatrist in WA | $304,920 | +90.0% | $146.60/hr |
| Family Medicine Physician in WA | $292,900 | +82.5% | $140.82/hr |
| Nurse Anesthetist in WA | $274,390 | +70.9% | $131.92/hr |
| Podiatrist in WA | $232,970 | +45.1% | $112.00/hr |
| Dentist in WA | $169,730 | +5.7% | $81.60/hr |
| Pediatrician in WA | $169,540 | +5.6% | $81.51/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a veterinarian typically earn in Washington?
- The median salary for a veterinarian in Washington is $160,510 per year, which breaks down to about $77 per hour. This means that half of veterinarians in the state earn more than this amount, while the other half earn less.
What is the salary range for veterinarians in Washington?
- In Washington, the salary range for veterinarians typically falls between $97,140 and $265,600 annually. This wide range reflects differences in experience, specialization, and location within the state.
How does veterinarian pay in Washington compare to the national average?
- Veterinarians in Washington earn significantly more than the national average, with their median salary being 28.5% higher. This suggests strong demand and compensation for veterinary professionals in the state.
How many veterinarians are employed in Washington?
- There are approximately 2,390 veterinarians employed across Washington state. This indicates a substantial number of opportunities within the field for those looking to work in the area.